Morocco beat the odds by defeating Colombia 1-0 in the Women’s World Cup, advancing to the Round of 16, while Germany and South Korea were eliminated.
The Atlas Lionesses got out to a fast start, driving forward with every opportunity.
Colombia gave as much as they received, hoping for an early goal to disrupt their opponent and give them a chance to win their third group match.
When it appeared that both teams would go into the break tied at 0-0, the South Americans gave away a penalty, much to the delight of the Moroccan fans.
Captain Ghizlane Chebbak rose to the situation, but Catalina Perez of the Powerpuff Girls kept the ball out. However, the rebound fell to Sakina Ouzraoui, who passed it to the advancing Anissa Lahmari. The latter did well to hit the target and score the only goal of the game.
Colombia had a few chances after the interval, but good goalkeeping from Khadija Errmichi and a touch of luck saw the Atlas Lionesses through to the final 16.
Morocco’s victory caps an amazing turnaround from their initial 6-0 loss to Germany.
The Atlas Lionesses finish second in Group H after winning two games; Colombia leads the group despite the loss, while Germany and South Korea are eliminated.
The two countries tied 1-1 in a match played at Brisbane Stadium. Morocco is presently in the knockout stage alongside Nigeria and South Africa.
Germany is without a doubt the largest loser in this situation. Many anticipated them to advance after a strong start to the competition, but a loss to Colombia and a stalemate on Thursday have worked against them.
Morocco will now face France in the knockout round on Tuesday at Adelaide’s Hindmarsh Stadium.
